GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and Vitae Pharmaceuticals Inc. have formed an exclusive worldwide strategic alliance to develop and commercialise novel drug compounds for the treatment of hypertension and related cardiovascular disorders.

Vitae will receive an upfront payment from GSK which is comprised of both cash and an equity investment in Vitae. Vitae will also receive committed funding to support research activities conducted by Vitae and further payments upon the achievement of research, development and regulatory milestones. Aggregate payments to Vitae during pre-commercial activities for the lead product would be $175 million. GSK will pay Vitae royalties on the sale of all products upon commercialisation. In addition, Vitae retain the right to co-promote any product in the US resulting from this alliance. The agreement will become effective upon the completion of customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals, including Hart-Scott-Rodino clearance, a release from GSK said here.

Vitae has created multiple, novel chemical series of renin inhibitors which are very potent and highly orally bioavailable using its proprietary drug discovery engine, Contour. These series have progressed from discovery to achievement of animal model proof of concept in less than 12 months. Under the alliance, the parties will pool their respective renin programmes and collaborate to identify and select compounds for clinical development. GSK will then lead and fund development and commercialisation of renin inhibitors.

"This alliance enables GSK to capitalise on Vitae's research and discovery efforts in the area of renin inhibition and continue to build on GSK's capabilities and commitment to cardiovascular disease," said Dr. Eliot Ohlstein, senior vice president, Cardiovascular and Urogenital Centre of Excellence for Drug Discovery, GlaxoSmithKline.